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Plums

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Through the expertise of dried plum suppliers, this nutrient-rich fruit reaches global markets, supporting industries ranging from food production to wellness. Harvested at peak ripeness, plums are carefully dried to enhance their sweetness and extend their shelf life, making them a staple in the dried fruits market.

What are Plums?

Plums and prunes are closely related fruits, with prunes being the dried form of specific varieties of plums. Known for their sweet, tart flavor and deep purple skin, plums are enjoyed fresh, while prunes are prized for their preservation and numerous culinary uses.

Types, Varieties & Forms of Plums and Prunes

Dried plums, commonly known as prunes, are available in various forms to suit different consumer preferences and culinary applications:

  • Whole Prunes: Naturally dried plums with pits removed, retaining their full size and shape, ideal for direct consumption or cooking.
  • Pitted Prunes: Whole prunes with the pits removed, offering convenience for snacking and recipe inclusion.
  • Diced Prunes: Small, uniform pieces perfect for baking, salads, and trail mixes.
  • Prune Paste: A smooth, blended form used as a natural sweetener or fat substitute in various recipes.

These forms provide versatility, catering to both industrial food production and home culinary uses.

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Harvest Season of Plums and Prunes

Plums are typically harvested in the late summer to early fall, depending on the variety:

  • European Varieties: These plums are harvested from late summer to early fall, generally between July and September.
  • Japanese Varieties: These tend to ripen earlier, usually from late spring to summer, between May and July.

Prunes, being dried plums, are made by harvesting the plums at peak ripeness and drying them over several weeks. This drying process typically occurs after the fresh plum harvest season, making prunes available year-round.

Producing Countries

Plum cultivation is widespread, with several countries leading in production:

  • China: As the largest producer, China accounts for approximately 6.6 million tonnes of plums annually, contributing significantly to the global supply.
  • Romania: Ranking second, Romania produces around 807,170 tonnes per year, with a substantial portion used in traditional dishes and spirits.
  • Serbia: With an annual production of about 488,593 tonnes, Serbia stands as a major player in the global plum market, supplying both fresh and dried varieties.

Other notable producers include Chile, Turkey, and Iran, each contributing significantly to the global supply chain.

Trends & History

Prunes have been used for thousands of years, with historical references dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. In modern times, prunes are largely known for their digestive benefits, although they are increasingly recognized for their versatility in the food and beverage industry. The global market for prunes has expanded due to growing consumer interest in healthy snacks and natural ingredients. They are popular in baked goods, energy bars, smoothies, and as a natural sweetener in various products.

Plums, especially fresh varieties, continue to be a favorite summer fruit, with fresh plums becoming more widely available in supermarkets during the peak harvest season. The market for prunes, however, is more year-round, driven by their shelf-stable nature and health benefits.

The increased demand for natural and organic foods has also contributed to a steady rise in the wholesale market for both plums and prunes, as more consumers seek healthy, non-processed snack options.

Plums & Prunes Wholesale

If you are looking to source high-quality plums or prunes for your business, Nutrada offers an excellent platform for connecting with reputable suppliers from top-producing countries like the United States, China, and France. Whether you need fresh plums for immediate consumption or prunes for packaging, baking, or ingredient use, Nutrada helps you find trusted wholesalers who offer competitive prices. Create an account today and streamline your sourcing process by connecting with reliable suppliers in the plum and prune industry.

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